This is a continuing initiative but a new face on their web page with some updated material and resources. Excellent material from the Canadian Mental Health Association of Ontario.
“In any given week, more than half a million Canadians will be absent from work because they’re struggling with their mental health.” (CMHA)
Employers, managers, supervisors
- Look for Signs –Sudden behaviour changes, consistent late arrivals/absences, decreased productivity, making excuses for missed deadlines/poor work, and displays of anger/defensiveness may indicate a potential mental health issue.
- Talk About It – Arrange to meet an employee to raise concern and offer help. Beforehand, find out what resources – such as Employee Assistance Programs or community services – may be available and have information handy when you meet.
- Build Comfort – You want to minimize stress, not contribute to it. It’s important to talk about how the employee is valued before raising concern. Think about an individual’s strong points and contributions they’ve made. Be honest, upfront professional and caring in your approach.
Employees
- Talk to your doctor –1 in 5 people will experience a mental health problem this year but only a third will seek help. Depression is treatable, and most people who receive the right supports recover fully.
- Connect with a professional – Combining professional counselling with medical treatment is generally more effective than only doing one or the other. A psychologist, a psychotherapist, or a social worker has specialized training to help you learn new coping skills. Most EAP and benefit plans will provide access to these services.
- Reach out to those you trust – Close personal connections are one of the most powerful healing and protective tools to combat depression. Tell a family member, friend, or co-worker exactly what you need. It may be simply to listen, provide encouragement when you’re down, or doing things together that you enjoy.
- Live well – Exercise, sleep, and healthy eating are some of the first things to be compromised when experiencing depression. However, research shows that it works the opposite way too. Making conscious choices to lead a healthier lifestyle – especially when you don’t feel like it – can boost your mood.
For more practical tips, visit the newly relaunched Mental Health Works website.
Please refer to (CMHA) for more details
